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I am currently participating in a class titled, “Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology” through Walden University. The topic of discussion this week is behaviorist-learning theory, and how it may or may not correlate with certain instructional strategies. Behaviorism is the use of operant conditioning, positive and negative consequences, to manage learner behavior (Laureate Education Inc., 2009).
Positive reinforcement of student effort is a valid use of operant conditioning techniques. Some students do not understand that achievement levels are tied to effort (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). Our textbook provides instructions on how to develop data collection tools, build a spreadsheet and use rubrics to track how student effort corresponds with achievement. The results may be enough evidence to motivate learners to put forth maximum effort.
Technology and behaviorism may also combine to facilitate meaningful homework assignments. Many online resources are available that engage students in content, deepens their understanding and promotes learning (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). Learners discover that utilizing software can lead to positive reinforcement from parents and teachers, and be fun at the same time.
One problem with using internet or computer based programs for homework is student access. I have learners who do not have a computer at home, do not have internet access, or cannot use the computer as a learning resource. Some of my students have a computer, but they share it with several siblings and their parents, all of whom seem to need it. Educators must know their students and avoid assigning homework that learners cannot complete.
References
Laureate, Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Brain research and learning: Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology [DVD]. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M. & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Ken,
ReplyDeleteYou give a good reminder that not all students will have access to technology at home.
I am intrigued to try the exercise in having students use a spreadsheet to track their performance based on effort. I think this may be a valuable tool, however, caution is advised. I believe that effort may have to be modeled and taught to students. How do you deal with students who honestly believe they put in much effort but had poor results? Then you have the high achievers who do not have to put in much effort and they score well on assignments.
Teaching effort has its place, but as with everything else in education, it has to be carefully planned and executed. As you mentioned, know your students. The phrase is simple, but it means so much.
Hello Ken,
ReplyDeleteI too have students that do not have access to technology at home. I teach in a very diverse district in which the economic status ranges from the very affluent to the very needy. So, I can relate to how difficult it is to integrate technology outside the school environment.
In an effort to allow greater access to technology for my students, who have limited access for economic reasons or families belief's about use of technology, I have begun to build a mini computer lab right in my classroom. Through donations, and my own tendency to spend my own money on my classroom desires, I now have five computers and a printer/scanner which I convinced my school district to link to our wireless network. I use the computers to allow for differentiation of practice as well as for research and group work presentation. It does take quite a bit of management, but the effort seems worth the results as the students access technology and improve their learning, collaboration and understanding.
Ken,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with the problem of some students not having technology at home. To me this makes the school computer lab a very vital resource. I don't see how we can, or ever could, require students to have a computer in their home. For some families, it is a struggle to feed their children, let alone provide accurate technology. If the computer lab is available to students as much as possible, this will allow all students to gain the useful tool!
Along with the concern that all students do not have computer access, do all students have resources in their primary language? I think back to our previous class and wonder how to best handle students that have a language barrier? Or how about learning difficulty? Just food for thought.
ReplyDeleteFellow Educators,
ReplyDeleteThank you for commenting on my blog post. You have each brought up valid points for me to consider in my teaching. I respect each of you and look forward to working with you over the course.
Ken